Bittersweet it definitely isn't true. I think we all feel that way whether it be a fleeting feeling or a constant. I myself feel it as a constant too... I don't know what i can really say to help you because i haven't been able to figure it out myself. You seem to be doing all the right things "therapy, positive thinking, etc"... One day it will all be easier. There are certain people you will meet in life who can change your entire world, you wont see it coming .. and i mean in a positive way. I hope you come across someone like that and in the mean time keep up with what you've been doing, and I know it isn't easy and can feel hopeless... but push through and keep hope.

But I'm not worried about it. Not anymore. Because I can love and I want the people I love to be happy. And seeing them happy makes me feel better too.

I know that it's strange that even if they don't feel the same for you (in romantic relationships or friendships) you'll be happy, but knowing I can still love other people and making everything I can do for them it's the best feeling I have experienced in years.

I know what you mean. I still have hope tho I am in a dark place right now. For me too this un-loveable thing would go into other things like compliments. Or hearing "I love you" and thinking immediately "she's so nice to say that". Or hearing it makes me very nervous.

Still it could be how you perceive the facts/present them. Like the glass half empty/half full model. Or when something bad happens to you. You could think of it like you being a victim or a survivor. One is more positive, both are true. Sorry if I'm preaching but i hate seeing the word "can't".

Oh and that reminds me. This comedian I like, when his mind starts going nuts with his couch he just says to himself "I'm just a guy sitting on a couch." I guess it counteracts all his negative anxious thoughts and grounds him. I've always liked this phrase since hearing it.

Last edited by atavistic; 07-01-2011 at 07:21 AM..
Reason: Added to it.

When my self-esteem is at it's lowest (usually in my lowest fits of depression) I try to keep occupied with anything to keep my mind from wandering off to those dark places. I guess that's why I have so many hobbies. Feeling that you are creating something and learning something helps build self-confidence.